Does Sex Aggravate The Urethra When Men Have A UTI?

Does sex aggravate the urethra when men have UTI? This is just one of many questions men may have when they have a urinary tract infection. Learn the answer to this question and learn more about urinary tract infections in the words that follow.

Urinary tract infection or UTI is the common name given to any infection that begins in the urinary system. This system includes the urethra, bladder, ureters and kidneys. Urine is generally free from any bacteria or organisms, but having sex can cause bacteria from the skin, vagina and rectum to be pushed into the urethra, causing a urinary tract infection. When you have a urinary tract infection, sex can definitely aggravate the urethra. If a urinary tract infection in men is localized to the urethra, he may experience a discharge from the penis or a burning sensation upon urinating. It is important to see a doctor as these symptoms are similar to some sexually transmitted diseases. A urinary tract infection left untreated for too long can lead to a kidney infection, kidney damage and even a blood infection.

Urinary tract infections are not contagious. Although having sex aggravates the urethra when men have a UTI, urinary tract infections are not sexually transmitted diseases. More women than men experience urinary tract infections, mostly because women have shorter urethras. Men are more susceptible to urinary tract infections after the age of 50, this being because that they start to develop prostate problems, such as an enlarged prostate, which can block flow of urine. Men who do have a urinary tract infection, at any age, are likely to have more serious complications than women.

Urinary tract infections need to be treated. A true UTI will not go away on its own. Treatment usually consists of some oral antibiotics. Cranberry juice has been shown to help treat and prevent urinary tract infections. Drink plenty of water to help flush out the urinary system. Although symptoms will go away within a few days of taking an antibiotic, it is important to take the full prescription. If you stop taking the antibiotic just because you feel better, the organism has not been fully treated and the infection can grow worse. Avoid sex for two weeks after your symptoms have gone, so that you do not aggravate the urethra.